From: Why Years Fly By: The Psychology of Time Speeding Up As We Age
perspectivescientific

From a scientific and psychological viewpoint, the speeding up of time is largely a matter of perception and memory. Researchers point to a combination of factors, including the 'proportional theory' – where each passing year represents a smaller and smaller fraction of our overall life, making it feel less significant. Another key idea is the 'novelty effect.' When we're young, our brains are constantly encountering new information and experiences, which creates a rich tapestry of memories, making time feel expansive. As we age, our lives often become more routine, leading to fewer distinct memories. Without these unique 'markers,' periods of time can blend together, making them seem shorter in retrospect. Our attention also plays a role; children often have more unfiltered attention on the present, while adults are frequently multi-tasking or focused on future goals.

controversy

Supporting arguments

  • Proportional theory: a year's length relative to total life.
  • Novelty effect: new experiences create denser memories.
  • Attentional focus: how much we engage with the present moment.
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Why Years Fly By: The Psychology of Time Speeding Up As We Age
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